Lymphocytic thyroiditis

Lymphocytic Thyroiditis (LT) is an immune-related destruction of the thyroid gland, resulting in hypothyroidism. Clinical symptoms include sluggishness, obesity, dry hair and skin, thin coat, alopecia, seborrhea, cold intolerance, weakness and infertility. The disease affects multiple breeds in high frequency and is also present in humans but is then referred to as Hashimoto´s thyroiditis. LT is a complex disease, influenced both by environmental and genetic risk factors.

Latest Research Update: A comparison of the genome between healthy and dogs with LT in Giant Schnauzer dogs have identified five novel candidate genes for canine LT. These genes and surrounding regions are now investigated in detail to identify the actual gene variants that contribute to the disease development. Sampling of additional cases and controls from different breeds is ongoing.